How does your window’s energy efficiency stack up? Let’s talk Energy Star ratings. It almost doesn’t need to be said that energy efficient windows are important. So important, in fact, that Energy Star was established in 1992 by the EPA in order to rate energy efficient appliances and reward homeowners who choose to use them. Energy efficient help conserve the environment, as well as save homeowners money every month on their energy bills. When you search for energy efficient replacement windows, Energy Star ratings can help you to understand exactly what you’re getting from them. But first, you have to […]

How will your Milwaukee home benefit from energy efficient windows? If the time has come for you to replace your windows, the clear answer is energy efficient windows. Energy efficiency is the buzz phrase in every home improvement conversation, and for good reason. What it means, essentially, is that the window provides a tighter seal, which allows your home to use less energy. This allows you to enjoy many benefits for your Milwaukee home. Better Insulation Have you ever noticed a “cold spot” in a room during the winter? Chances are, that draft comes from your windows. All windows allow […]

Energy efficient siding saves both energy and money. We all love to save money, and that can seem harder and harder to do, especially in the world of siding. Some homeowners choose cheap siding for this reason, only to have to repair or replace it a few years later. We recommend instead energy efficient siding like high quality vinyl with foam-backed insulation or composite siding. Not only are these higher quality, longer-lasting products that make your house look great, but they can even help you save money. How? Lower Energy Bills The most immediate way that energy efficient siding can […]

A home energy audit involves an auditor from the department of energy who comes to your home, assesses all of your utilities and amenities to determine how much energy your home uses. If your energy bills are higher than you’d like or you want a more environmentally friendly home, a home energy audit can help you figure out where to start. They can tell you how much energy your home uses, how that stands up to the average home, and offer tips to help you lower you conserve energy in a livable way. Here are a few reasons your home […]

Part 1: Wood windows If you are shopping for replacement windows in Milwaukee, Waukesha, and surrounding areas, you are probably wondering what is the best window material available for our harsh climate. Great question first of all! The answer is unfortunately more complicated than just picking one, however we take great pride in breaking down the pros and cons of all choices available to homeowners so that you may find that choice that best meets the goals of your project. Factors when considering material for replacement windows: Performance, durability, longevity, maintenance, appearance, cost, and warranty coverage.

U factor (also known as U value) is the most referenced metric of performance when it comes to replacement windows, and for good reason. The total unit U factor tests the entire, finished window assembly for thermal performance at a 5mph wind speed. Essentially, this rating tells you how well the unit will insulate, and specifically measures the rate at which heat can pass through, without regard to air infiltration. U factor is actually the inverse of the more commonly referenced “R factor” when it pertains to other building materials, however U factor is specifically used for fenestration (glass). To convert, […]